Lincoln Park Zoo lion euthanized

The 18-year-old male lion at Chicago’s Lincoln Park Zoo has died.

Zoo officials said Wednesday that ill health forced veterinarians to euthanize the lion, named Adelor. Adelor has been at the zoo’s Lion House since 1995 when he arrived from a South African game reserve. He was the father of five cubs and attracted visitors with his flowing mane and loud roar. Zoo officials say he suffered from several geriatric-related health problems.

Life expectancy for lions is about 14 years.

The zoo now has one African lion, a 15-year-old female named Myra. Lincoln Park Zoo officials say they are contacting other zoos to find a suitable partner for Myra.